Crabmommy is an Etsy buyer and also writes a humorous motherhood blog for Cookie magazine with a monthly Etsy feature. She divides her time between motherhood and complaining about it.
I ruffled many mommy feathers when I dissed baby shower registries on my blog. I’m not against baby showers–just registries themselves. Registries — in my not-so-humble opinion — are tacky, dull, and presumptuous, and I pledge to never, ever purchase some Buy Buy Baby hideous automated mobile off a dang list, much less recommend such an act to my mom-readers! Thankfully, with such a splendid abundance of Etsylicious offerings available, one can ignore those pesky registries and easily find exquisite, lovingly crafted, original, and memorable gifts to be treasured, which is what giving is supposed to be about.
Mellon Slippers by bellaserababy
Etsy’s baby bootie booty is an embarrassment of riches. I just love the creativity in Etsian handmade shoes. I have a bit of a thing for easy-to-put-on and certain-to-stay-on crossover-style baby shoes, like these from bellaserababy.
Magic Jewel Bears – Limited Edition Print by zukzuk
One-of-a-kind nursery artwork is the present that lasts forever. Frankly if someone had given me one of zukzuk‘s bear or soon-to-be-relisted logland prints for my babe, I would have made him or her a godmother even though I’m an atheist.
Algiers, 1932 by tollipop
Ditto with tollipop‘s delectable bunny print. Its strange, compelling title — Algiers, 1932 — makes me feel intellectual and well traveled.
Felt Balls – Custom Letters by kneek
What could be more thoughtful than a customized baby present? I am so digging these brilliant custom-letter felt balls for the babe room — way cooler than those ho-hum store-bought blocks spelling out baby’s name. At only $7 a ball you score even more if baby’s name is Cy or Pax!
Natural Wooden Doll Bodies by goosegrease
If you’re artsy, start with goosegrease’s wooden dolls and paint your mom friend’s new family (convo with the seller to customize).
Wooden Grabbing and Nursing Necklace by stonesofhealing
For a practical pick that is also eco-fabulous, this nursing necklace from stonesofhealing is genius. A gorgeous tactile birch ring, it distracts baby from pulling hair or biting Mama.
Eco modern baby cushion circle by boopalinabebe
Continuing the eco theme, you can’t go wrong with boopalinabebe‘s chic mod multi-purpose baby cushion/mat/changing pad, made from organic bamboo fleece and cotton. Swanky!
Sweet bird bib, burp cloth & changing pad by jenniferladd
I’m totally in love with this scrumptious bib, burp cloth, and changing pad set by jenniferladd in heavenly mod bird-patterned fabric. Seriously ad.or.able.
Play Mat Vintage Apples by mimoo
Etsy really is the place for baby play mats. mimoo‘s awesome selection includes this vintage apple-themed number. Yummy!
Little Jasper by rosieok
My hands-down fave baby presents are those that could easily be for mom too. For me, that’s amigurumi crocheted dolls and animals. My babe was given a tiny crocheted duck as a newborn. I promptly stole it away for myself. I would have done the same had my newborn been given one of rosieok’s custom-crafted boy or girl dolls — and her pandas and teddies are equally charming.
Crochet Pattern – Ruby in a Strawberry Costume by Owlishly
Note: Owlishly (and many other Etsyfabulous sellers) lists her own amazing amigurumi patterns for purchase. Me, I’m far too lazy and intimidated, but maybe you’re not. If you’re up to it, why not tackle this dear strawberry creature (pattern is geared towards beginners), or else convo to price out a custom order.
Beige on Beige Cranberry Piped Smocked Dress by darlasclothing
If your mom-friend is expecting a little girl and traditional retro-fabulous baby clothing floats your boat, then what could be sweeter than a smocked frock? This romper is so screamingly adorable it *almost* makes me want to reproduce again.
rockerbaby’s darling bow and spotted dresses (from newborn up) are equally striking, updating vintage looks for the mod tot.
I hope you enjoyed my new baby findings and that you’ll stop by my blog at Cookie magazine for more chitchat. In amongst talking smack about motherhood in general and poking fun at others and myself, I like to showcase quality affordable design for kids and moms. Sellers, feel free to convo with me if you have something cool in the $20 and under range for my monthly feature!
Looking for past Guest Curators? Check out our archive.
Special event at 4pm today — Baby Shower in the Virtual Labs!
Baby Gift Guides | Children’s Category | Handmade Kids Series | Gift Ideas
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88 comments
Sign in to add your owndaisylouise says:
yay for unique baby presents!
3 years ago
rikrak says:
lovely finds!
3 years ago
4TheSparrowsNest says:
I can't wait to have a kid or two so I can dress them in lovely handmade things. The soiree dress is so cute..I'd like a version in my size, haha!
3 years ago
pupa says:
some really cute ideas (loving the rocker baby dress) :)
3 years ago
rockerbaby says:
I really want to thank you so much , it is a pleasure to be part of so many talented designers Thanks so much:)
3 years ago
stonesofhealing says:
Thank you so much for including my grabbing ring. What a lovely assortment you have picked! Etsy is certainly the place to go for amazing baby shower and children's presents!
3 years ago
tinahdee says:
these are very cute picks. Thanks for sharing!
3 years ago
BabbidgePatch says:
Such great finds~ Love stonesofhealing product, too!
3 years ago
norajane says:
I love that nursing necklace. I need one badly!
3 years ago
EpicBones says:
oh nice! yeah I love the eco-fabulous stonesofhealing ring. My sister keeps getting all these plastic things for her baby, and I wonder if it's good for her or the baby or the planet? I keep meaning to do some research on eco-friendly baby toys, seems like wood is pretty safe. Thanks for this article!
3 years ago
AlloverArt says:
I want to have a baby just so I can buy those tiny shoes!!
3 years ago
kunklebaby says:
cute cute cute!!!
3 years ago
babycheeks says:
Great picks!
3 years ago
CositasSeriasVintage says:
wonderful article! i agree 100%.
3 years ago
odiliafu says:
Oh, so cute!!!
3 years ago
cravejewelrydesign says:
Everything is just adorable! I love it :)
3 years ago
sweetshorn says:
Gosh, I want most of these for myself.
3 years ago
zombuki says:
Love these! Especially the bear!
3 years ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
Thank you for supporting Etsy sellers with handmade baby gifts, I appreciate it!
3 years ago
jenniferladd says:
What a great idea to buy handmade for baby! Thanks for including my sweet bird gift set!
3 years ago
etaletc says:
this is wonderful. just wonderful.
3 years ago
MonPetitAcorn says:
Oh these are all so very cute!
3 years ago
wearpurlsandsmile says:
I'm totally in agreement that registries are the most impersonal and generic ways to give gifts! I think they stink of entitlement and seem to say "I don't trust you to pick me out something I like. You don't know me at all. I don't know why we're friends."
3 years ago
crabmommy says:
wearpurlsandsmile, my sentiments exactly. Sellers whom I featured up here: thank YOU. It's inspiring to come to Etsy and see what you're all up to. It is so great to be able to prove to my readers that registries SUCK and going original is so NOT difficult when you have Etsy to guide you.
3 years ago
thepatacakebaby says:
beautiful, unique items that any new mom or baby would love!
3 years ago
breanneangelo says:
I hope to get some of these great gifts at my baby shower on March 1st. Lovely items!!
3 years ago
deebeale says:
Great finds.
3 years ago
soulflower says:
I wish my friends had know about etsy when i had my baby girl. I wish I had known about etsy too!
3 years ago
prettypeardesigns says:
Wonderful, bright collection! This is the place to shop!!!
3 years ago
TheWovenSpoke says:
Lots of really pretty & unique items for sure! Good job :)
3 years ago
voleurdebijoux says:
very sweet and lovely...great picks! :)
3 years ago
BabyNest says:
Super cute!!
3 years ago
Odannysgirl says:
Great shower gifts!
3 years ago
FlanneryCrane says:
this story scratches the baby itch...too cute!
3 years ago
bombshellstudios says:
This is my favorite Storque article, the photos are all gorgeous and I love all the items!
3 years ago
GoldenPearArtStudio says:
Oh My! This is so funny and true! Why does someone presume I want even go to Babies R Us, let alone buy something from there! I will buy handmade and local everyday!!!!
3 years ago
AureliaandAnnalise says:
I love crabmommy and her blog!!:)
3 years ago
JoyandWhimsy says:
Thanks Crabmommy - please support out of print, vintage children's book titles. Thanks!
3 years ago
crabmommy says:
joyandwhimsy--I ADORE vintage books and write abut them often at Crabmommy. Will be sure to stop by yr shop.
3 years ago
timesandchimes says:
crabmommy has amazing eyes!!! These items are all so superb that I wish I had a little-one in the house!
3 years ago
breadandroses says:
Wonderful collection! Love the kneek's felt balls in saturated jewel tones.
3 years ago
worksofwhimsy says:
crabmommy has excellent taste. I wish I could have found wonderful, colorful stuff like this 15 years ago when I had my little girls!
3 years ago
MimiMakesMemories says:
Your article was a homerun...the items you featured were all really precious
3 years ago
Xenotees says:
Such a great thing to promote the amazing baby gifts on Etsy!
3 years ago
Owlishly says:
crabmommy, thanks so much for the feature, it's such a pleasure being included in such a fabulous list!
3 years ago
IndigoRain says:
Yay for originality! Love these picks. There is indeed an abundance of exquisite crafts and art etc. right here on Etsy. Go Etsy!
3 years ago
nakedpeggies says:
I have bought from Owlishly and LOVE her super cute patterns! These items are all great! I LOVE ETSY!
3 years ago
RaeGun says:
I love all of these so many of my favorites here
3 years ago
holly says:
Fabulous picks!
3 years ago
LaireMarie says:
Seriously, could these be any cuter?!
3 years ago
meeabee says:
I love the idea of giving baby art. I personally love ZukZuk (featured above). I have a few SarahJane prints ready to give this year as baby shower gifts (sarahjanestudios.etsy.com). Gorgeous finds!
3 years ago
BluCille says:
Nursing necklace! What a great idea.
3 years ago
joycetruck says:
I am new to Etsy, but LOVE everything here! What a wonderful place! I am glad someone suggeested it to me.
3 years ago
pogoshop says:
I hope the idea of having Etsy baby registries catches on. Can you image how fun it would be to go to a shower and watch a new mom open fantastic Etsy orginals? We also have some wonderful pastry shops that would supply lovely refreshments made to order. What a super shower!
3 years ago
theaxx says:
I love the illustrations here, and especially love the themed feel of all the choices. I also agree with pogoshop re the baby registry, such fun to see all the inspiring little one of a kind gifts... www.forthevisionaries.tumblr.com thea. xx
3 years ago
EclatDesigns says:
This is giving me great ideas for a friend of mine. I'm also considering this, and others should too: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17677623
3 years ago
TheCottageCheese says:
Love jenniferladd's stuff! And I really want that rocker baby dress in my size!
3 years ago
passthelasso says:
fabulous finds! a new generation of mommies man!
3 years ago
eclecticquirky says:
These are some great finds. Love the melon baby shoes. I wish my "baby" {whose just over a year} could wear little shoes like that. Now she's just growing and growing!
3 years ago
jodieflowers says:
Lots of unique baby shower gifts in here! I just love etsy!
3 years ago
babsandme says:
I laughed out loud when I saw the grabbing ring necklace. So simple and so perfect - holding onto something stable can only increase baby's sense of security. Bravo!
3 years ago
littlealouette says:
love it all thanks to one of my fave bloggers!!!
3 years ago
mamafamilias says:
The necklace is perfect! And the Soiree dress makes me want to have a girl! And I think my niece needs her initials made out of felt balls!
3 years ago
BDOODLES says:
Mom to three, I never went with a registry, and would have been tickled with just about any of the handcrafted baby 'things' found within Etsy. Always a bounty of 'green'and beautiful options.
3 years ago
MizKake says:
I am so glad that someone agrees on the whole registry idea! I would much rather give thoughtful items.
3 years ago
lynnetteart says:
Very adorable and unique baby gift ideas.
3 years ago
rosieok says:
i just wanted to say thanks so much for including me in a group of so many wonderful etsians :D
3 years ago
circlesareforever says:
Baby items are my favorite.
3 years ago
rabbithorns says:
Thanks for these. I am buying a pattern from Owlishly because I found her stuff right here!
3 years ago
Darklingsboutique says:
Excellent finds, makes me wish mine were still babies! (but only for a few seconds!lol)
3 years ago
kingofmythrone says:
Beautiful and unique gifts for the beautiful and unique child.
3 years ago
shopgoodgrace says:
FABulous finds!! I think I found a new blog - great take on being a mommy. :)
3 years ago
yummyink says:
T H A N K S for sharing! Colorful selection!
3 years ago
analoukopoulos says:
Great stuff, love them all!!!
3 years ago
LollyBopBaby says:
I agree...handmade baby all the way! Cute items. I love making baby things!
3 years ago
SusysBibs says:
Thanks for featuring such talented crafters. I've checked many of them out. I'm all about well made and handmade.
3 years ago
cloud9designstudio says:
cute ideas! my shop has angel wing onesies that people LOVE to buy for baby shower gifts! http://cloud9designstudio.etsy.com
3 years ago
wildstrawberry says:
I love "Ruby in a Strawberry Costume", and I wish I had the wooden nursing necklace right now for me & my little one.
3 years ago
polkadotstrawberry says:
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Fantastic ideas!!!! Especially love the patterns from Owlishly :) ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
3 years ago
wickedchilddesigns says:
Great selection - love the playmats at Mimoo !! xo Teneale
3 years ago
artdecadence says:
All gorgeous picks...just the thing for the modern mum and her modern bub...and sure to sporn a whole new creative generation!
3 years ago
BarracudaDesigns says:
Fantastic things!!! It's so amazing to see what's out there...
3 years ago
ruby2gogo says:
Go go Mimoo - great to see agorgeous BrisStylette featured! loving those vintage apples and especially that photo - what a peach..oh sorry apple! xh
3 years ago
ahandmadechildhood says:
wow...so many great ideas...my head will burst!!!
3 years ago
HouseHoldWords says:
ahhhhh
3 years ago
lisagorno says:
my my my.....aren't handmade things just grande! Lovely, indeed.
3 years ago